when i shift into 2nd gear from first, it takes a long time and it grinds, especially when im in the higher RPMs. this is causing my car to have slower acceleration. what do you think the problem is? could it be my transmission or clutch?

 

if you havent already, change your tranny fluid, i would suggest redline mt90 (you can get it at summit) but other people have had success with the royal purple stuff and gm synchromesh.

i had a nasty second gear grind, then i switched to redline and it hasnt been back since.

 

It would be your transmission. As already sugested put Redline in. That stuff is great.

 

Synchromesh worked for me. Do a search on 2nd gear grinds you'll find all kinds of info.
I've heard some negative things about RedLine.....